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Publications and Educational Resources

Publications and Educational Resources

Cows in fields at farn mear North Valley Pike, Virginia, USA.

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Virginia Cooperative Extension delivers practical, science-based information that you can trust, which supports the wellbeing and economic sustainability of individuals and communities throughout Virginia and beyond.

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Featured publications

  • Resource Item
    Figs growing on leafy horizontal branches. Several are green, and one is a brownish color.
    Backyard Figs in Virginia: A Grower’s Guide , resource

    Figs are native to the Mediterranean region but are grown readily across the world. The “fruit” of the fig is a syconium, a group of inverted flowers that grow in a pod, which helps give the fruit a satisfying crunch. The shelf life of figs will be contingent on postharvest storage conditions or whether it is further processed. This fruit can be consumed fresh, dried or as further processed goods such as jams or preserves.

  • Resource Item
    Which Foods Should I Keep or Discard During a Power Outage?
    Which Foods Should I Keep or Discard During a Power Outage? , resource

    Virginians are no stranger to severe weather events. For example, Hurricane Helene in 2024 resulted in widespread power outages across the Commonwealth. Before a power outage strikes, it is important to be prepared, including how to preserve refrigerated and frozen foods and avoid wasting hundreds of dollars in groceries. This fact sheet provides practical guidance on keeping your food out of the temperature danger zone for as long as possible during a power outage. We will also address how to prioritize the order of consumption of foods to minimize food waste and prevent foodborne illness.

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    Reading the Pesticide Label
    Reading the Pesticide Label , resource

    Reading a pesticide label is an essential step before the purchase, use, storage, and disposal of a product. The information provided in a pesticide label can keep you from making mistakes and ultimately help protect human health and the environment. This publication gives a brief overview of the components that are found on pesticide product labels.

Publications by topic

From articles on sustainable farming practices and food safety techniques, to guides on building strong communities and fostering leadership skills, Virginia Cooperative Extension offers a wealth of knowledge that can help you make informed decisions and improve your life. Explore the topics below.

Publications in additional languages
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Agricultural business, finance, and management
Agricultural systems
Animal agriculture
Commonly-used forms
Community development
Crops and soils
Environment and natural resources
Extension, outreach, and engagement
Foods, nutrition, and health
Home, family, and finance
Lawn and garden
Nursery, greenhouse, and turf
Speciality agriculture
Youth development

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